General Stores

General Stores

Many general and/or grocery stores were in operation east of Souris, beginning and carrying on in the 1900s. Some of these stores were located merely a mile from each other. Groceries were sold in bulk at these locations and customers purchased the amount they would need until their next visit was possible. Supplies such as molasses, flour and vinegar were sold in large barrels. The molasses came in big drum called “puncheons”, which held 90 gallons. People would bring their own containers to pour the molasses in to take home. The same thing went for most items like sugars and spices; whereby people only bought as much as they needed.

The general store was not only a place to purchase your daily needs, but also a hub of social activity. People gathered regularly to talk, laugh and tell countless stories; as well as pass the time smoking or whittling chips. Often, long winter nights were passed catching up with neighbours on community events and life changes. The country general store always provided a warm and friendly atmosphere for its area residents.